Ford Vertrek Concept Defines Modern Capability for Next Generation of Compact SUV Customers

* Ford Vertrek concept is a sporty, sleek, fuel-efficient and versatile compact sport utility vehicle (SUV), and shows the direction the company will take as it works to renew both the Ford Escape and Ford Kuga
* Vertrek concept reflects a convergence of customer demand globally for compact sport utility vehicles
* Vertrek concept hints at more versatility, ample luggage space and interior roominess, plus a level of craftsmanship and quality that customers around the world now demand

DETROIT, – Ford Motor Company’s new Vertrek concept, revealed today at the 2011 North American International Auto Show, offers a dynamic, all-inclusive solution to what customers demand in a compact SUV across the globe, particularly in North America, Europe and the world’s largest car market, China.

Key trends among customers for this type of vehicle are common to North America, Europe and Asia. They include engaging design, outstanding fuel economy and smart technologies wrapped in a right-sized package that supports an active lifestyle.

“In markets around the world, consumers are very clear about what they want in a compact SUV – strong design, great driving quality, smart technology and the capability that helps get them to places they love to be,” said Jim Farley, group vice president, Global Marketing, Sales and Service. “This holds true no matter where they live – in the U.S., Europe, China – these are global trends.”

Importantly, the Vertrek concept showcases the cargo-carrying capability that consumers expect, but adds a level of craftsmanship and quality often lost in compact SUVs.

“This concept supports the idea of ‘grab your gear and go’ capability, but does it in a very sophisticated way,” said Farley. “It blends capability and great design and craftsmanship.”

The Vertrek concept previews a next-generation product with a sleek, modern design and yet maintains the generous cargo volume offered by the current Ford Escape in North America, a traditional compact SUV with 66.3 cubic feet (1,879 liters) behind the first row and 29.2 cubic feet (828 liters) behind the second row.

The concept is also created to show how an all-new Ford compact SUV could offer substantially more cargo volume than the current Ford Kuga sold in Europe, yet still retain design leadership in its segment. In production, a vehicle based on the Vertrek concept could offer about 15 percent more cargo volume behind the first row than the Kuga and around 20 percent more cargo volume behind the second row.

Powertrain technology is also advanced, providing anticipated best-in-class fuel economy with the 1.6-liter Ford EcoBoost™ gasoline engine featured in the concept vehicle as one of the future powertrain choices. The concept also previews the Ford Auto Start-Stop system, which contributes further to fuel efficiency and low emissions.

Launched in North America and now being introduced worldwide, Ford’s expanding line of award-winning EcoBoost engines produces power comparable to larger, naturally aspirated engines with the fuel economy of smaller-displacement engines.

EcoBoost is fundamental to Ford’s strategy to provide technologically advanced, high-output, smaller-displacement powertrains that deliver uncompromised performance and fuel economy. Ford EcoBoost engines deliver fuel economy gains of up to 20 percent and reduction of CO2 emissions of up to 15 percent, compared with larger, less efficient powertrains.

In addition to turbocharging with direct injection, Ford engineers have enhanced EcoBoost’s technology capabilities by adding variable valve timing and precisely controlling all aspects of the engine. Ford has at least 125 patents on its EcoBoost technology.

By 2013, 80 percent of Ford’s global nameplates and 90 percent of Ford’s North American nameplates will have an EcoBoost option.

The Vertrek concept could also easily use one of Ford’s wide range of efficient and powerful diesel engines offered in markets outside the U.S. For example, the acclaimed 2.0-liter Ford Duratorq® TDCi (turbo diesel common-rail direct-injection) engine has recently been upgraded to deliver even higher efficiency with improved performance, fuel economy and refinement.

A more efficient combustion system enables greater peak power, significantly improved driveability with increased responsiveness and more pulling power at low engine speeds. It also delivers reduced fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. Depending on application, CO2 emissions are reduced by up to 7 percent compared to the previous 2.0-liter Duratorq TDCi engine.

Paired with the high-tech engines are fuel-saving six-speed transmissions. By 2013, all Ford vehicles in North America will incorporate a six-speed transmission as part of the company’s commitment to leadership in fuel economy in all vehicle segments.

Improved highway fuel economy especially important
Ford’s global data show that compact SUV customers increasingly use their vehicles for weekend getaways, making improved highway fuel economy a must. This highlights the importance of the aerodynamic design of the Vertrek concept, and it led to the inclusion of an accessible, small-displacement internal combustion engine in the vehicle rather than a hybrid or electric powerplant that might be more attuned to city dwellers.

“Increased fuel economy, especially outstanding highway fuel economy, is what these customers want because they are active on the weekend, taking trips and seeking new experiences,” said Farley. “They want their vehicle to look good, drive well and use less fuel.”

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About Ford Motor Company
Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles across six continents. With about 163,000 employees and about 70 plants worldwide, the company’s automotive brands include Ford and Lincoln. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford’s products, please visit www.ford.com.